Am I eligible to donate blood?

Donor eligibility depends on many different factors.  Each individual is unique in their circumstances surrounding their ability to donate.

PRIOR TO DONATING

  1. Eat Well – your body needs energy in order to provide a good donation and replenish itself.
  2. Drink Plenty of Fluids – Fluids comprise a large percentage of your body so your hydration is important.
  3. Bring a Photo I.D. – even if you have donated before, it is necessary that you provide proof of identification for quality control.  If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must have a signed Parental Consent Form

FREQUENT REASONS THAT CAN IMPACT ELIGIBILITY

  1. Travel – international travel can impact your ability to donate – please let the staff know where you have traveled recently if outside the United States.
  2. Medications – many medications can impact your ability to donate.  If concerned about your current medications, please contact our centers for assistance prior to your appointment.
  3. Medical History – some illnesses impact your ability to donate.  In certain cases it may defer your donations for a limited period of time, in others it can permanently defer you.  Our staff will assist you in determining your status.
  4. Weight limits – currently donors must be 113 lbs or more to donate blood.
  5. FDA Guidelines – quality control is mandated by the Food & Drug Administration, specific guidelines have been established to ensure that our blood supply is not compromised.  Blood Bank of Alaska follows these guidelines when screening all potential donors.
  6. Not Following the Three Key Rules – Eat Well, Drink Plenty of Fluids and Bring a Photo I.D.
  7. Learn More About Iron Levels and Donating
Image

FOR QUESTIONS REGARDING ELIGIBILITY

PLEASE CALL 907-222-5630